Are you ready to learn about the amazing size of the Empress Wu hosta? This variety can grow as tall as 4 feet and as wide as 6 feet in just five years. It's a giant among hostas, standing out from the rest. Let's take a closer look at how big this hosta can get.
Introducing the Empress Wu Hosta
Hosta 'Empress Wu' is a giant hosta that grabs attention in gardens. It's a seedling of 'Big John' hosta, growing into a stunning mound with thick, corrugated green leaves. In spring, these leaves look blue-green because of a glaucous coating.
The Empress Wu hosta has the largest hosta leaves, known for their wavy green color. It grows up to 48 inches tall and 70 inches wide, making it one of the biggest hostas out there. Plus, it adds beauty with pale lavender flowers in mid-summer.
| Characteristic | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Price | $15.95 |
| Mature Height | 3 to 4 feet |
| Mature Width | 5 to 6 feet |
| Hardiness Zones | 3-9 |
| Bloom Season | Summer |
| Exposure | Full to part shade |
| Drought Tolerant | No |
| Botanical Name | Hosta 'Empress Wu' PP20774 CPBR4240 |
The Empress Wu hosta is a real showstopper in gardens. It's perfect for both hosta experts and newcomers. This plant will surely amaze and inspire anyone.
Growing the Empress Wu Hosta
The Empress Wu hosta is a stunning and large variety that can change your garden. It thrives best in certain conditions. Plant it where it gets morning sun or dappled sunlight all day. Avoid putting it in the hot afternoon sun, especially in warm places, as it can burn the leaves.
This hosta loves soil that's rich in humus, moist, and drains well. But, it can also grow in sandy or clay soils. If your soil is light and lacks organic matter, adding compost or aged manure can help. It will make the soil richer and better at holding water.
- When planting the Empress Wu hosta, dig a hole that's about twice as wide but just as deep as the container it's currently growing in.
- Gently remove the plant from its pot and place it in the prepared hole, ensuring the crown is level with the surrounding soil.
- Water the plant thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate any air pockets.
Looking after the Empress Wu hosta is easy during the growing season. Watch out for pests like rabbits and slugs. Also, cut back the leaves in the fall to protect the crown during winter.
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Hosta 'Empress Wu' |
| Patent # | USPP 20,774 |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 3 - 9 |
| Sun Exposure | Shade ( |
| Mature Size | 3-4' H x 5-6' W |
| Flower Color | Pale violet |
| Foliage Color | Blue-green |
| Bloom Time | Early summer, midsummer |
| Soil Preference | Moist and well-draining |
| Water Needs | Average, with some tolerance for dry shade |
| Winterizing | Cut foliage back in late fall, leaving 4-6 inches standing to protect the crown over winter |
Empress Wu Hosta - The Giant Hosta
The Empress Wu hosta is the largest hosta available today. It can grow up to 48 inches tall and 70 inches wide. Its leaves are thick and green, reaching up to 1.5 feet long and wide.
This hosta is a giant, thanks to its massive size. Its leaves have a unique blue-green look in spring. As it grows, it becomes a standout in any garden, towering over other plants.
Hostas are known for being adaptable and cold-hardy. The Empress Wu is no different. It thrives in zones 3-9 and prefers partial shade. With its moderate water needs and space requirements, it's perfect for shade gardens.
Grow the Biggest Hosta on the Block
If you're looking for the largest hosta for your shade garden, the Empress Wu is your best bet. This hosta is famous for its huge size, making it a standout in any garden.
The Empress Wu hosta can grow leaves up to 16 inches wide. It will become a big mound, reaching 4 feet tall and 6 feet wide. Its size makes it a striking feature in any garden.
For the best results, plant the Empress Wu in a spot that gets morning sun or dappled shade. It needs rich, moist, well-drained soil. Be patient, as it may take 5 to 8 years to reach its full size.
Pair the Empress Wu with other shade-loving plants like:
- Smaller hosta varieties
- Foamy bells (Heucherella)
- Ferns
- Japanese forest grass
This will highlight the Empress Wu's size and create a beautiful garden scene.
The Empress Wu hosta is perfect for gardeners wanting a big hosta. With the right care, it becomes a garden highlight that will impress everyone.
Conclusion
The Empress Wu hosta is a giant among hostas, reaching up to 48 inches tall and 70 inches wide. Its leaves can grow up to 1.5 feet wide and long. It's the biggest hosta available today, perfect for those who love hostas and want to stand out in their shade gardens.
This hosta makes a bold statement with its size. It draws the eye and leaves a lasting impression on everyone who sees it. With the right care, like morning sun or dappled shade and rich, moist soil, it can thrive and be the star of your garden.
Among over 3,800 hosta varieties, the Empress Wu stands out. It's known for its huge leaves, tall stature, and light lavender flowers. Gardeners across the U.S. will be drawn to its unique features and easy care.
